MSC Cruises signs landmark agreement for six next-generation cruise ships  

MSC Cruises’ New Frontier class of cruise ships was announced at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin by federal minister for economic affairs Katherina Reiche and energy minister-president Lower Saxony, Olaf Lies, MSC Cruises executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago and Meyer Werft chief executive Dr Bernd Eikens.

Mr Vago said, “Together with Meyer Werft, we will create vessels that redefine the cruise experience while preserving the craftsmanship that keeps Germany at the forefront of maritime engineering. The New Frontier class will enable us to design new and exclusive itineraries, offer exceptional guest experience and will feature next-generation environmental technologies that will advance our net-zero 2050 commitment.”

Dr Eikens added, “This new order marks a significant milestone in the 230-year history of Meyer Werft. We are delighted to welcome MSC Cruises as a new customer and strategic partner. This long-term partnership with MSC Cruises ensures sustainable growth and job security for many years to come.” 

With a maximum passenger capacity of 5,400 and approximately 180,000 gt, the New Frontier ships will be delivered annually starting in 2030.

A statement said the order will secure thousands of jobs in Germany, particularly in Lower Saxony and Papenburg. More than 3,200 people are directly employed at Meyer Werft, with more than 20,000 jobs in the wider region linked to its operations.